You know what’s more fun than beating the Braves once? Beating the Braves twice and taking the series. That’s precisely what the Phillies will try to do tonight after hanging on to take the opener last night. And they’ve got just the man on the mound to do it.

For his career, Kyle Kendrick has posted a sparkling 2.86 ERA against the Braves while going 7-1. It’s the best numbers he has against an NL East opponent. Even in earlier days, when Kendrick struggled a lot more as a pitcher, he’d pitch well against the Bravos. Just one of those things.

The Braves counter with Tim Hudson, who is still pitching relatively well, despite beginning to show signs of age. Hudson did struggle in his first start against the Phils, way back in the first series of the season, surrendering three runs in just 4.1 innings of work. For his career, he’s got a 3.81 ERA when facing the Phillies.

Charlie keeps the lineup the same, aside from getting Chooch back in there. Keep an eye of Ryan Howard, who sees the ball very well off Hudson. For his career, he’s taken him deep seven times and posted a .328 average.

UPDATE: The Phillies have scratched Ryan Howard from tonight’s lineup, moving him to the DL. Darin Ruf has been recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take Howard’s place on the roster. Laynce Nix is starting in place of Howard at 1B for tonight’s game. The updated lineup is below.

Brewed in Braves country, Abita’s Purple Haze is a perfect accompaniment to watching the Phillies play in the heart of Dixie. A fruity beer with a hint of wheat in the aftertaste, it’ll pair well with some Memphis-style barbecue and a side of coleslaw. –RD